Great news for tech professionals seeking inspiring places to live and work! Singapore and Beijing have secured prestigious positions in Savills' groundbreaking Matcha Index, a fresh approach to measuring what makes cities truly liveable for the global tech community.

Released this week, the innovative index takes its name from the matcha latte, which has become the beloved beverage of choice for young professionals in the tech industry. But this ranking goes far beyond coffee shop preferences—it celebrates how modern cafe culture has evolved into essential social infrastructure that brings people together, sparks innovation, and builds thriving communities.

The research highlights a wonderful shift in workplace culture. Today's tech workers are increasingly prioritizing wellness and mindful living, and matcha perfectly embodies these values with its sustained energy release and health benefits. This trend reflects a broader movement toward balanced, healthier lifestyles in the tech sector—a truly positive development for workers worldwide.

What makes this index particularly interesting is how it recognizes that great cities need great gathering spaces. The cafes where professionals meet, collaborate, and exchange ideas have become just as important as traditional office environments. These welcoming third spaces foster the creativity and human connection that drive technological innovation forward.

Singapore stands out as an exceptional example, offering an incredibly vibrant and rich cafe culture that goes well beyond traditional coffee. The city-state has embraced the matcha movement wholeheartedly, with the green tea powder appearing in everything from lattes and gelato to cakes and bubble tea. This diversity and enthusiasm for innovation—even in food and beverage—reflects Singapore's broader commitment to creating dynamic, liveable urban spaces.

"Singapore has a vibrant and rich cafe culture," noted Sulian Tan-Wijaya, executive director of retail and lifestyle at Savills Singapore. "Besides the strong presence of established and new coffee chains, our cafe culture has evolved to embrace anything matcha."

The abundance of high-quality cafes and the social connectivity they foster have helped Singapore maintain its position as a top destination for tech talent, demonstrating that quality of life encompasses much more than just salaries and office perks.

Beijing also shines in the rankings, offering exceptional value alongside its tech credentials. With matcha lattes averaging just $3.61 compared to $6.21 in New York, the Chinese capital provides an accessible entry point for young professionals building their careers while still enjoying modern urban amenities.

This new index represents an exciting evolution in how we think about liveable cities. By recognizing the importance of social spaces, community connection, and lifestyle quality, it paints a holistic picture of what makes a city truly great for its residents. As more cities invest in creating welcoming public spaces and fostering vibrant communities, tech workers worldwide will have more wonderful options for building fulfilling lives and careers.

The future looks bright for urban centers that prioritize both innovation and quality of life—and that's something worth celebrating!